CENTENARY Theatre Company are hoping for a bit of lady luck as they take on Guys and Dolls at The Brindley in Runcorn.

The Warrington group will be telling Abe Burrows and Jo Swerling’s tale of gangsters, gamblers and nightclub singers in New York City.

Guys and Dolls has been a showstopper since it debuted on Broadway in 1951 and has been previously adapted by Centenary in 1992 and 2006. Rehearsals began for the show in January and after all the preparations it will launch on May 16 and run until May 20.

Jo Chatt, director, said: “The last month is the toughest challenge as all the production elements come together. This involves ensuring the direction, choreography, musical direction, costume and everything else are connected to give an overall polished look to the show.

“But our production of Guys and Dolls has been so rewarding to work on as all the relationships and situations in the musical are relevant today. The memorable musical numbers and the comedic roles are accessible to all.”

More than 40 members currently make up Centenary Theatre Company which has been treading the boards for 115 years.

Padgate resident Mike Pirks, one of Centenary’s committee members, added: “Not only are we blessed with incredibly talented performers, we are also supported by an enthusiastic and dedicated backstage team.

“This ensures we give our members a professional view of how productions are put together and is a key reason as to why Centenary has stood the test of time.

“It may sound like a cliché but Centenary is one big family. We work hard together and support each other both in and out of the society.”

The group is also supporting Warrington’s bid to become Capital of Culture 2021.

Mike, 33, who works for the ombudsman by day and performs for Centenary by night, said: “Warrington has a fantastic history for all things creative and has one of the best art scenes in the north west.

“Although we perform mainly in the Halton area, we are still very much a Warrington based society and we use our status to help support Warrington based charities.”

Jo added: “Performing at the Brindley theatre in Runcorn is amazing, a purpose built venue which allows an amateur theatre company feel like professionals.

“It would be fabulous to have a similar facility in Warrington, but we are lucky enough to have a following who will make the extra drive to support our shows.”

n Guys and Dolls is at The Brindley in Runcorn from May 16 to 20. For tickets visit thebrindley.org.uk

DAVID MORGAN